Virus

The word “virus” is derived from the Latin word for poison. Viruses are associated with all forms of life (bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes). Viruses are infectious, obligate intracellular parasites whose genomes consist of either DNA or RNA. Virus genomes direct their own replication and the synthesis of other viral components, using cellular systems in appropriate host cells. Virus particles (known as virions) are formed by assembly from newly synthesized components within the host cell. Virions are the vehicle for transmission of the genome to the next host cell or organism, where their disassembly initiates the beginning of the next infectious cycle. A minimal virus consists of a genome that has an origin of replication, plus a proteinaceous coat, known as a capsid. For enveloped viruses, the capsid is enclosed in a host cell-derived lipid bilayer studded with virus-specified glycoproteins. Viruses are dependent on host cells for biosynthesis of proteins and other critical macromolecules.

Related Compound Screening Libraries (5)